Motorcycle Repair: Engine Problem, yamaha xs750, clutch plates

Question
Hello Mike,

  I know you're a Harley man, but I have a '77 Yamaha XS750, and thought you might answer this question, as it is not make specific. I just replaced the clutch plates in the engine, and while doing so, I noticed the oil smells strongly of gasoline, and is white and milky in areas. I cannot think of what might be causing this. I just changed the oil with Yama Lube 20-40. The oil has always been changed on the bike. The carbs don't appear to be doing anything funny, like leaking gas, as I removed them, and checked the floats. One thing I did find very odd, was that the air box had about two cups of gasoline in it, in the lower area where the breather is. So, I would Imagine that's where the gas is going into the oil. But where is it coming from? Also, the bike was tipped over in the garage by a youngster, do you think this may have caused this? I have noticed a gas smell to the oil when checking it with the dipstick, in the past. Thanks for any help, I appreciate it. --Seth

Answer
Probably when the bike tipped over it didnt let the floats in the carb close all the way and the carbs leaked filling the air box. The gas ran through the intake and into to motor past the rings.
You need to get the gas out, becuase it will wash the bearings. Drain the oil and change the filter. Start the bike and let it warm up. Shut it off and drain the oil and change the filter again. Check the drained oil for gas. Keep doing this until the oil comes out clean and you should be ok.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike